If the nerve is damaged, however, the signal will be slower and weaker. In healthy nerves, strong electrical signals can travel at up to 120 miles per hour. As the current travels down the nerve pathway, the electrodes placed along the way capture the signal and time how fast the signal is traveling.

The doctor then stimulates the nerve with an electric current.

The doctor conducting the test will apply wires (electrodes) to the skin in various places along the nerve pathway.

NCS are often done along with the EMG to determine whether a nerve is functioning normally. The tests can typically be done in less than an hour. These tests are usually administered by a neurologist (a doctor who specializes in the study of the nerves) or a physiatrist (a physical medicine and rehabilitation, or PM&R, specialist). This process is called electrodiagnostic testing. If you have pain, weakness, or numbness in your back, neck, or limbs, measuring the speed and degree of electrical activity in your muscles and nerves can help your doctor make a proper diagnosis.

Injuries or diseases that affect nerves and muscles can slow or halt the movement of these electrical signals.

Motor nerves deliver signals from the brain to activate your muscles.

Sensory nerves deliver information about your surroundings to the brain.Did you know that your body is an electrical generator? Nerves and muscles create electrical signals that deliver messages to and from your brain.

Emg test for lower back pain